7 Common Motorcycle Crashes And How To Avoid Them 

May 7, 2024 | Motorcycle Accidents

7 Common Motorcycle Crashes And How To Avoid Them

Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, but how dangerous are motorcycles? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it’s pretty dangerous. The NHTSA says that 14% of all traffic fatalities were motorcycle fatalities in 2021, despite motorcycles only comprising 3.5% of all registered vehicles. Additionally, motorcyclists were almost 24 times more likely to die in a traffic crash than those in a passenger vehicle per vehicle miles traveled. Texas motorcyclists represent approximately 12.5% of all traffic fatalities, making up 562 of the 4,481 traffic fatalities in 2022.

The key to avoiding being part of these grisly statistics is to be able to answer questions like, “What is the primary cause of motorcycle crashes?” and “How can I avoid a motorcycle crash?” Understanding some of the most common types of motorcycle crashes and how to avoid them is crucial. 

1. Left-Turn Accidents

What is the main cause of motorcycle accidents? A passenger vehicle turning left into the pathway of a motorcyclist.

These accidents often occur because drivers of passenger cars are not as observant regarding the presence of motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller than other types of vehicles. 

Additionally, motorists may misjudge how far away motorcyclists are. Some ways to avoid these types of accidents include:

  • Wear reflective clothing to increase visibility. 
  • Check the road well in front of you.
  • Make eye contact with the driver.

Defensive driving may be able to help avoid this type of accident. 

2. Lane-Switching Accidents

Another common cause of motorcycle crashes is when a passenger vehicle switches into the lane occupied by the motorcyclist. How do many motorcycle crashes happen when switching lanes? The driver of the passenger vehicle may not see you or may not check their blind spots, so they may move into your lane, causing a crash. 

Try to ensure that you can see the driver’s face in their mirrors when driving beside them. If not, back up or move past the motorist so that you are more visible. 

3. Head-On Collisions 

Head-on collisions are the most fatal type of collision between a motorcyclist and a motorist. 

Some ways that you can avoid a head-on collision include:

  • Reading the road ahead
  • Driving to the right
  • Reducing your speed
  • Riding off the road

These quick maneuvers may save your life. 

4. Lane-Splitting Accidents

Lane-splitting occurs when a motorcyclist drives between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. Other motorists do not anticipate these maneuvers, so they may crash into the motorcyclist or switch into their lane. Simply avoiding lane-splitting may be able to prevent this type of crash. 

5. Drunk Driving Accidents

A significant percentage of motorcycle accidents involve drivers who are drinking. You can avoid this type of crash by avoiding drinking and driving. Also, look out for signs that other drivers may be intoxicated, such as them weaving in and out of lanes or having inconsistent speeding patterns. 

6. Corner-Turning Crashes

Does everyone fall off a motorcycle during a crash? Not necessarily. However, motorcyclists are more likely to fall off their bikes during a corner-turning crash. Motorcyclists may fall off their bikes while driving around a sharp corner. 

You can avoid this type of crash by following these tips:

  • Look ahead for any hazards, like potholes, wet leaves, or sudden drop-offs.
  • Pay attention to road signage.
  • Slow down when approaching a tight turn.
  • Enter the corner wide.
  • Avoid slamming on the brakes.

While other types of crashes often involve the actions of other drivers, the ability to prevent these accidents is completely within your own control.

7. High-Speed Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycles are sometimes appealing because of their high speeds. However, high-performance motorcycles are involved in a disproportionate number of motorcycle accidents. Driving at an appropriate speed and avoiding speeding on dangerous roads can help prevent these accidents. 

Contact An Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in San Antonio, TX

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in San Antonio, Texas, and need legal help, contact our San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers at George Salinas Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today. Since most lawyers in this area of the law offer free initial consultations, you can get some preliminary legal advice and learn about your best next steps at no cost to you.

George Salinas Injury Lawyers
6243 I-10 Ste. 955, San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 225-0909